Size labels are not a standard. A medium from one brand can be an inch wider than a large from another. Measuring is the only reliable way to buy a hoodie online, and it takes about two minutes with a garment you already own.
What you need
- A hoodie you already own that fits the way you like
- A tape measure, or a ruler and a piece of string
- A flat surface, like a table or a bed
Lay it flat
Lay the hoodie face up and smooth it out without stretching it. Zip it up if it has a zip. Fold the hood back behind it so it doesn't pull on the shoulders. Every measurement below is taken with the garment flat, which is how clothing brands publish their size charts.
1. Chest
Measure straight across the front from armpit seam to armpit seam, about an inch below where the sleeves join. This is the most important number. It decides whether the hoodie fits or not.
Don't double it. A size chart that says "flat" or "pit to pit" means this single measurement.
2. Body length
Measure from the highest point of the shoulder, where the shoulder seam meets the collar or hood, straight down to the bottom of the ribbed hem. This decides whether it sits at your waist, covers your belt, or sits lower.
3. Sleeve
Measure from the shoulder seam down to the end of the cuff. Sleeves are the measurement most likely to vary between brands, and the one people least often check.
Compare, then choose
Take your two main numbers, chest and length, to the size chart and find the closest match. A few rules of thumb:
- If your chest measurement falls between two sizes, the larger one gives a relaxed drape and the smaller one a closer fit. Decide which you want before you look at the chart, not after.
- Within half an inch counts as a match. Garments vary that much in production.
- Heavyweight fleece holds its shape. If you are used to thin hoodies, the same measurements will feel slightly more structured.
- A boxy or oversized cut is meant to measure wider than you are. Compare it with a hoodie you like the drape of, not with your body.
Our measurements
The flat measurements for every Marque piece are on Sizing & Care, published before it goes on sale.
Or just ask
Email wearmarque@gmail.com with the chest and length of the hoodie you measured, and we will tell you which size matches it. A person answers, usually within one business day.
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